Dakigaeri Valley: A Cobalt Blue Paradise
Discover Dakigaeri Valley: Hike through stunning natural beauty, where turquoise rivers meet vibrant forests in Akita's scenic gorge.
Dakigaeri Valley, near Kakunodate, Akita, is a stunning gorge famous for its vibrant foliage, turquoise Tamagawa River, and serene hiking trails. The valley offers a refreshing escape into nature, with highlights like the Mikaeri-no-taki Waterfall and the Kami-no-Iwahashi suspension bridge.
A brief summary to Dakigaeri Valley
- Tazawako Sotsuda, Semboku, Tazawako Sotsuda, Akita, 014-1113, JP
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during mid-October to early November for the most vibrant autumn foliage.
- Wear appropriate footwear for potentially muddy areas and water crossings.
- Check the bus schedule in advance if using public transportation, as services may be limited.
- Be aware that the hiking trail is typically closed from late November to late April due to snow.
Getting There
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Car
If driving from Akita City, take the Akita Expressway towards Tazawako. Exit at the Tazawako Interchange and follow the signs to Dakigaeri Valley, approximately a 20-minute drive. Parking is available near the valley entrance. Parking fee is typically 300 yen during the fall foliage season.
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Public Transport
From Tokyo or Sendai, take the Akita Shinkansen (bullet train) to Tazawako Station. The journey takes about 3-4 hours. From Tazawako Station, take a Semboku City Bus towards Dakigaeri Valley, a 30-minute ride. Check the bus schedule in advance as services may be limited. During the Autumn Festival, shuttle buses operate between Dakigaeri Valley and Lake Tazawa. A taxi from JR Kakunodate Station to Dakigaeri Valley is about 15 minutes.
Discover more about Dakigaeri Valley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kubota Castle Front Gate
46.8 km
Step back in time at Kubota Castle Front Gate, a beautifully reconstructed landmark in Akita's scenic Senshukoen Park.
Turret of Kubota Castle
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Dewa Sanchi
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Goshono Jōmon Museum
86.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kakunodate Rekishi-mura Aoyagi-ke (Aoyagi Samurai House)
7.7 km
Experience the rich history of the samurai at Aoyagi Samurai House in Kakunodate, a beautifully preserved attraction showcasing Japan's feudal era.
Kakunodate Bukeyashiki dōri (samurai residence street)
7.8 km
Step back in time on Kakunodate's Bukeyashiki dōri, a preserved samurai district with Edo-period residences and stunning cherry blossoms.
Statue of Tatsuko
11.9 km
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Lake Tazawa
12.1 km
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Shigarai Onsen Sawauchi Baden
25.9 km
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Kamakura Museum
33.6 km
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Koiwai Farm
35.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and agricultural charm of Koiwai Farm, a captivating dude ranch in Iwate, Japan, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Mount Iwate
40.4 km
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Matsukawa Gorge
41.4 km
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Kagami-numa pond (Hachimantai Dragon Eye)
42.2 km
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Morioka-jo Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)
44.0 km
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Ishiwarizakura (The Rock-Splitting Cherry Tree)
44.1 km
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Takamatsu Pond
44.1 km
Discover tranquility at Takamatsu Pond in Morioka: a scenic escape with seasonal beauty, cherry blossoms, and migratory swans.
Morioka History and Culture Museum
44.1 km
Discover Morioka's past: Explore the history and culture of this castle town at the Morioka History and Culture Museum.
Takamatsu Park
44.3 km
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Essential places to dine
NAGASHI SOMEN
22.7 km
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Hachimantai Summit Rest house (Rest area, light meal cafeteria and souvenir shop)
41.8 km
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Hittsumi-tei
45.7 km
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Restaurant Kokage
45.9 km
Experience authentic udon noodles and local flavors at Restaurant Kokage in Hachimantai - a must-visit culinary destination.
Akita Tempura MIKAWA
47.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese tempura at Akita's premier dining destination—Tempura MIKAWA—a true delight for food lovers.
Towada shokudō
93.6 km
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Shonaikan
97.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Frespo
42.2 km
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AEON MALL Akita
42.4 km
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Marukan Building
47.0 km
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Hiraizumi Rest House
78.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe & Inn That Sounds Good!
15.6 km
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Baeren Brewery
44.6 km
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Sake Gining Mondo
86.1 km
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